Portugal secured a dominant 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan in the second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage. The match took place in Houston, Texas, showcasing Portugal's offensive prowess.

Cristiano Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 6th minute, receiving a pass from João Cancelo and slotting the ball home. This goal was Ronaldo's ninth in World Cups for Portugal, tying the legendary Eusébio's record.

Nuno Mendes doubled the lead in the 17th minute with a precise free kick. Uzbekistan thought they had pulled one back in the 29th minute when Aziz Ganiev scored a spectacular long-range effort, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review. The referee determined that Abbosbek Fayzullaev had fouled João Cancelo in the buildup.

Just before halftime, Ronaldo scored his second of the night, completing a quick counterattack. This was his tenth World Cup goal, making him Portugal's all-time leading scorer in the tournament.

In the second half, Portugal continued to dominate. In the 60th minute, an own goal by Uzbekistan defender Abdukodir Khusanov made it 4-0.

The final score was set in the 87th minute when Rafael Leão fired a beautiful shot into the top corner, sealing a 5-0 victory for Portugal. Uzbekistan now faces a difficult path to advance from the group.

Source: kun.uz